Ever wondered what’s making those distinctive croaking sounds in your Texas backyard on humid summer evenings?
The answer might surprise you – the Lone Star State hosts an impressive collection of over 35 different frog and toad species, each with unique characteristics, calls, and habitats that make them perfectly adapted to Texas’s diverse ecosystems.
From the tiny cricket frogs that barely measure an inch to the massive American Bullfrogs that can weigh over a pound, Texas offers a fascinating glimpse into amphibian diversity.
Whether you’re exploring the pine forests of East Texas, the desert landscapes of the west, or the coastal plains along the Gulf, you’ll encounter these remarkable creatures that have called Texas home for millions of years.
This comprehensive guide will help you identify the most common and notable types of frogs in Texas, understand their behaviors, and appreciate the vital role they play in maintaining healthy ecosystems across the state.
You’ll discover everything from the critically endangered Houston Toad to the melodious Green Tree Frog, along with practical tips for spotting these elusive amphibians in their natural habitats.
Different Types of Frogs in Texas
Texas’s geographic diversity – spanning from humid southeastern swamps to arid western deserts – creates the perfect conditions for numerous frog species to thrive.
The state’s amphibian population includes true frogs, tree frogs, chorus frogs, spadefoot toads, and several unique species found nowhere else in the world.
Blanchard’s Cricket Frog
Blanchard’s Cricket Frog (Acris blanchardi) represents one of the smallest yet most vocal amphibians you’ll encounter across Texas.
These tiny frogs, measuring just 0.6 to 1.5 inches in length, pack an impressive acoustic punch that belies their diminutive size.
Distinguished by their warty skin and variable coloration ranging from gray to brown with darker blotches, Blanchard’s Cricket Frogs are excellent jumpers despite their small stature.
They typically display a distinctive triangular marking between their eyes and possess long hind legs that enable them to leap distances up to 20 times their body length.
These adaptable creatures prefer shallow water environments including ponds, slow-moving streams, and temporary pools throughout much of Texas.
Their metallic “click-click-click” call, reminiscent of striking two pebbles together, becomes particularly pronounced during breeding season from March through October.
Coastal Plain Cricket Frog
The Coastal Plain Cricket Frog (Acris gryllus) inhabits the southeastern regions of Texas, particularly areas with sandy soils and permanent water sources.
Slightly larger than their Blanchard’s relatives, these frogs measure 0.75 to 1.25 inches and display more consistent coloration patterns.
Their skin appears smoother than Blanchard’s Cricket Frogs, with distinctive dark stripes running from their eyes to their shoulders.
The Coastal Plain Cricket Frog’s call resembles a metallic rattle, distinct from other cricket frog species, making identification easier for amphibian enthusiasts.
These frogs demonstrate remarkable site fidelity, often returning to the same breeding pools year after year.
They prefer areas with emergent vegetation where they can easily escape predators while maintaining access to both aquatic and terrestrial habitats.
Green Tree Frog
Perhaps the most recognizable frog in Texas, the Green Tree Frog (Hyla cinerea) serves as the state’s unofficial amphibian ambassador.
These bright green beauties measure 1.5 to 2.5 inches and possess the remarkable ability to change color intensity based on environmental conditions and stress levels.
Their smooth, moist skin and distinctive white stripe running from their jaw to their flank make them easily identifiable.
Large toe pads equipped with specialized adhesive properties allow them to climb vertical surfaces with ease, from glass windows to tree bark.
Green Tree Frogs produce a distinctive “honk” call that becomes particularly loud before storms, earning them the nickname “rain frogs” in some Texas communities.
They’re commonly found around porch lights, attracted to the insects that gather there, making them frequent visitors to suburban areas throughout the state.
Gray Tree Frog
The Gray Tree Frog (Hyla versicolor) complex includes closely related species that are nearly impossible to distinguish by appearance alone.
These robust frogs measure 1.5 to 2.5 inches and display incredible camouflage abilities, shifting between gray, brown, and green coloration to match their surroundings.
Their skin appears more tubercular than Green Tree Frogs, with a distinctive star-shaped marking on their back.
Bright yellow-orange coloration on their inner thighs becomes visible when they jump, startling potential predators – a defensive strategy called “flash coloration.”
Gray Tree Frogs prefer wooded areas with access to permanent water sources.
Their melodious trill, lasting 1-3 seconds, creates a pleasant soundtrack in Texas forests during spring and summer evenings.
They’re particularly active during humid conditions and after rainfall.
Cope’s Gray Tree Frog
Cope’s Gray Tree Frog (Hyla chrysoscelis) shares nearly identical physical characteristics with the Gray Tree Frog but can be distinguished by their faster-paced, higher-pitched call.
These frogs represent an excellent example of cryptic species – animals that appear virtually identical but are genetically distinct.
The primary difference lies in their chromosome count and call structure.
Cope’s Gray Tree Frogs produce a shorter, more rapid trill compared to their Gray Tree Frog cousins, though both species often occur in the same habitats throughout Texas.
These adaptable amphibians thrive in various environments, from urban parks to dense forests, demonstrating remarkable flexibility in their habitat preferences.
They’re particularly common in East Texas, where humidity levels remain consistently high throughout much of the year.
Mexican Treefrog
The Mexican Treefrog (Smilisca baudinii) brings a touch of the tropics to South Texas, representing the northernmost extent of this primarily Central American species.
These large tree frogs measure 2 to 3.5 inches and display distinctive bronze or brown coloration with darker patches.
Their robust build and large toe pads enable them to navigate thick vegetation with ease.
Mexican Treefrogs possess a distinctive fold of skin behind their eyes and demonstrate remarkable climbing abilities, often found high in trees during daylight hours.
These frogs prefer areas with dense canopy cover and access to permanent water sources.
Their loud, explosive “wok” call carries considerable distances, particularly during warm, humid nights when breeding activity peaks.
Spring Peeper
Spring Peepers (Pseudacris crucifer) announce the arrival of warmer weather throughout much of Texas with their distinctive high-pitched “peep” calls.
These small frogs, measuring 0.75 to 1.25 inches, display brown to tan coloration with a characteristic X-shaped marking on their back.
Despite their small size, Spring Peepers produce surprisingly loud calls that can be heard from considerable distances.
Large breeding aggregations create a chorus that can reach 100 decibels – comparable to a motorcycle engine at close range.
These adaptable frogs inhabit various wetland environments, from temporary pools to permanent ponds.
They’re particularly active during early spring when temperatures begin warming but before summer’s intense heat arrives.
Strecker’s Chorus Frog
Strecker’s Chorus Frog (Pseudacris streckeri) represents one of the most distinctive chorus frogs in Texas, with their stocky build and prominent toe pads setting them apart from other species.
These robust frogs measure 1 to 1.5 inches and display gray to brown coloration with irregular dark markings.
Their call resembles a rapid “crick-crick-crick” sound, often described as similar to running a fingernail across a comb.
This distinctive vocalization makes them relatively easy to identify even when they remain hidden among vegetation.
Strecker’s Chorus Frogs prefer areas with loose, sandy soil where they can burrow during dry periods.
They’re particularly common in East Texas, where they inhabit pine forests, mixed woodlands, and areas near temporary water sources.
Spotted Chorus Frog
The Spotted Chorus Frog (Pseudacris clarkii) brings distinctive markings to Texas’s chorus frog assemblage, with prominent green spots scattered across their brown to gray background coloration.
These medium-sized frogs measure 1 to 1.5 inches and possess a robust build typical of chorus frogs.
Their call consists of a rapid trill lasting 1-2 seconds, often described as resembling a ratchet or mechanical clicking sound.
During peak breeding season, males establish territories around suitable breeding sites and call persistently to attract females.
Spotted Chorus Frogs demonstrate preference for areas with sandy soils and access to temporary pools.
They’re particularly active during rainy periods when breeding conditions become optimal throughout their Texas range.
Cajun Chorus Frog
Recently recognized as a separate species, the Cajun Chorus Frog (Pseudacris fouquettei) inhabits southeastern Texas and closely resembles the Upland Chorus Frog.
These small frogs measure 0.75 to 1.25 inches and display brown to gray coloration with distinctive dark stripes running down their back.
Their call consists of a rapid trill that sounds like a fingernail scraping across a metal comb, lasting 1-2 seconds.
This distinctive vocalization helps distinguish them from other chorus frogs in their range.
Cajun Chorus Frogs prefer areas with sandy soils and access to temporary breeding pools.
They’re particularly active during winter and early spring when cooler temperatures and adequate moisture create optimal conditions for breeding activities.
Southern Leopard Frog
Southern Leopard Frogs (Lithobates sphenocephalus) rank among the most recognizable amphibians in Texas, with their distinctive spotted pattern and impressive jumping ability.
These medium-sized frogs measure 2 to 3.5 inches and display green to brown base coloration with prominent dark spots scattered across their body.
Their powerful hind legs enable them to leap distances up to 10 times their body length, making them excellent escape artists when threatened.
A distinctive light-colored line runs along their upper jaw, helping distinguish them from other leopard frog species.
Southern Leopard Frogs inhabit various aquatic environments, from ponds and lakes to slow-moving streams and rivers.
They’re particularly active during evening hours when they hunt for insects, small fish, and other aquatic prey.
Rio Grande Leopard Frog
The Rio Grande Leopard Frog (Lithobates berlandieri) represents one of the most aquatic species in Texas, rarely venturing far from water sources.
These medium-sized frogs measure 2.5 to 4.5 inches and display olive to brown coloration with darker spots that may appear somewhat faded compared to other leopard frogs.
Their call consists of a rapid chuckle or rattle, distinctly different from other leopard frog species.
Rio Grande Leopard Frogs demonstrate strong site fidelity, often returning to the same basking spots and territories year after year.
These frogs prefer areas with permanent water sources, particularly those with rocky substrates and flowing water.
They’re excellent swimmers and can remain submerged for extended periods when escaping predators or hunting aquatic prey.
Plains Leopard Frog
Plains Leopard Frogs (Lithobates blairi) adapt well to the drier conditions found in western Texas, demonstrating remarkable tolerance for arid environments.
These medium-sized frogs measure 2 to 4 inches and display brown to gray coloration with distinct dark spots surrounded by light borders.
Their call resembles a rapid chuckle or snore, lasting 1-3 seconds and often repeated in quick succession.
Plains Leopard Frogs possess slightly shorter legs than other leopard frog species, reflecting their adaptation to different habitat conditions.
These adaptable frogs inhabit various environments, from permanent water sources to temporary pools.
They demonstrate particular tolerance for alkaline conditions, thriving in areas where other amphibians struggle to survive.
American Bullfrog
American Bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus) represent the giants of Texas amphibians, with large individuals reaching lengths of 8 inches and weights exceeding one pound.
These impressive creatures display olive to brown coloration with darker markings and possess distinctive large eardrums (tympani) that are larger than their eyes in males.
Their deep, resonant “jug-o-rum” call can be heard from distances exceeding a mile under optimal conditions.
Male bullfrogs establish and defend territories around suitable breeding sites, engaging in wrestling matches with competitors during peak breeding season.
American Bullfrogs prefer large, permanent water bodies with abundant vegetation and prey opportunities.
They’re voracious predators, consuming everything from insects and small fish to other frogs, snakes, and even small birds or mammals.
Rio Grande Chirping Frog
Rio Grande Chirping Frogs (Eleutherodactylus cystignathoides) bring a unique reproductive strategy to Texas amphibians – they undergo direct development, skipping the tadpole stage entirely.
These small frogs measure 0.5 to 1 inch and display brown to gray coloration with darker markings.
Their distinctive “chirp” call, resembling a bird’s song, occurs throughout the year rather than being restricted to breeding season.
This persistent vocalization makes them relatively easy to locate, though their small size and secretive nature can make visual identification challenging.
Rio Grande Chirping Frogs prefer areas with limestone substrates and access to caves or rock crevices.
They’re particularly active during humid conditions and after rainfall when insect prey becomes more abundant.
Cliff Chirping Frog
Cliff Chirping Frogs (Eleutherodactylus marnockii) inhabit the rocky terrain of central and western Texas, demonstrating remarkable climbing abilities among limestone cliffs and boulder fields.
These small frogs measure 0.75 to 1.5 inches and display gray to brown coloration that provides excellent camouflage against rocky surfaces.
Their call consists of a clear, metallic “chirp” that echoes among rocky canyons and cliff faces.
Like other chirping frogs, they undergo direct development, with eggs hatching directly into miniature frogs rather than aquatic tadpoles.
Cliff Chirping Frogs prefer areas with rocky substrates and access to moisture-retaining crevices.
They’re particularly active during evening hours when they emerge from daytime hiding spots to hunt for small insects and arthropods.
Barking Frog
Barking Frogs (Craugastor augusti) earn their name from their distinctive call, which resembles a dog’s bark echoing through rocky canyons.
These medium-sized frogs measure 2 to 3.5 inches and display brown to gray coloration with darker markings that provide excellent camouflage against rocky surfaces.
Their robust build and powerful limbs enable them to navigate challenging terrain with ease.
Barking Frogs possess enlarged toe pads that provide excellent grip on smooth rock surfaces, allowing them to access vertical cliff faces and overhangs.
These frogs prefer areas with rocky substrates and access to caves or deep crevices.
They’re particularly active during humid conditions and after rainfall when insect prey becomes more abundant throughout their habitat.
Balcones Barking Frog
The Balcones Barking Frog (Craugastor augusti latrans) represents a subspecies of the Barking Frog specifically adapted to the Edwards Plateau region of central Texas.
These frogs display similar characteristics to their parent species but demonstrate particular association with limestone cave systems.
Their call consists of a loud, explosive bark that can be heard from considerable distances.
Balcones Barking Frogs often establish territories around cave entrances or deep rock crevices, taking advantage of the stable temperature and humidity conditions these environments provide.
These specialized frogs prefer areas with limestone substrates and access to underground water sources.
They’re particularly important indicators of ecosystem health in central Texas cave systems and surrounding terrestrial habitats.
Sheep Frog
Sheep Frogs (Hypopachus variolosus) bring a distinctive appearance to Texas amphibians with their inflated, balloon-like body shape and pointed snout.
These medium-sized frogs measure 1.5 to 2.5 inches and display brown to gray coloration with a distinctive yellow or orange stripe running down their back.
Their call resembles a sheep’s bleat or a nasal “waaa” sound, giving them their common name.
Sheep Frogs possess a unique feeding strategy, specializing in consuming ants and termites using their narrow mouth and elongated tongue.
These specialized frogs prefer areas with sandy soils and access to temporary pools for breeding.
They’re particularly active during rainy periods when ant and termite colonies become more active near the surface.
Eastern Narrow-mouthed Toad
Eastern Narrow-mouthed Toads (Gastrophryne carolinensis) display the characteristic egg-shaped body and pointed snout typical of their family.
These small frogs measure 0.75 to 1.5 inches and display brown to gray coloration with darker markings across their smooth skin.
Their call consists of a high-pitched buzz or bleat lasting 1-4 seconds, often described as resembling a lamb’s cry.
Eastern Narrow-mouthed Toads are ant and termite specialists, using their narrow mouths to access insect colonies.
These frogs prefer areas with loose, sandy soil where they can burrow during dry periods.
They’re particularly active during warm, humid nights when their preferred prey becomes more active near the surface.
Great Plains Narrow-mouthed Toad
Great Plains Narrow-mouthed Toads (Gastrophryne olivacea) adapt well to the drier conditions found in western Texas, demonstrating remarkable tolerance for arid environments.
These small frogs measure 0.75 to 1.5 inches and display gray to olive coloration with a distinctive fold of skin across their head.
Their call resembles a high-pitched buzz or electric sound, distinctly different from their eastern relatives.
Great Plains Narrow-mouthed Toads share the specialized feeding strategy of consuming ants and termites, though they demonstrate greater tolerance for alkaline soil conditions.
These adaptable frogs inhabit various environments, from grasslands to desert scrub.
They’re particularly active during rainy periods when breeding conditions become optimal and prey availability increases significantly.
Pickerel Frog
Pickerel Frogs (Lithobates palustris) represent one of the more distinctive leopard frogs in Texas, with their square-shaped spots and orange coloration on their inner thighs.
These medium-sized frogs measure 2 to 3 inches and display brown to gray base coloration with prominent rectangular spots arranged in parallel rows.
Their call consists of a low snore or croak lasting 1-2 seconds, often described as resembling a snoring sound.
Pickerel Frogs possess toxic skin secretions that can irritate predators, providing them with chemical defense against potential threats.
These frogs prefer cool, clear water sources with rocky substrates.
They’re particularly common in spring-fed streams and areas with consistent water temperatures throughout the year.
Crawfish Frog
Crawfish Frogs (Lithobates areolatus) earn their name from their association with crawfish burrows, which they use for shelter and breeding sites.
These large frogs measure 2.5 to 4.5 inches and display cream to brown coloration with distinctive dark spots surrounded by light borders.
Their call consists of a loud snore or growl lasting 1-2 seconds, often repeated in rapid succession.
Crawfish Frogs demonstrate strong site fidelity, returning to the same burrows and breeding sites year after year.
These specialized frogs prefer areas with sandy soils and access to crawfish burrows.
They’re particularly active during rainy periods when flooding creates optimal conditions for breeding and foraging activities.
Plains Spadefoot Toad
Plains Spadefoot Toads (Spea bombifrons) represent remarkable examples of adaptation to arid environments, remaining underground for months at a time during dry periods.
These medium-sized frogs measure 1.5 to 2.5 inches and display brown to gray coloration with a distinctive bony ridge between their eyes.
Their call consists of a loud, metallic trill lasting 1-2 seconds, often described as resembling a sheep’s bleat.
Plains Spadefoot Toads possess specialized spade-like projections on their hind feet that enable them to dig burrows in hard-packed soil.
These drought-adapted frogs prefer areas with sandy or clay soils where they can construct burrows.
They’re particularly active during heavy rainfall when temporary pools provide breeding opportunities and abundant food sources.
Mexican Spadefoot Toad
Mexican Spadefoot Toads (Spea multiplicata) inhabit the southwestern regions of Texas, demonstrating remarkable tolerance for extreme heat and arid conditions.
These medium-sized frogs measure 1.5 to 2.5 inches and display green to brown coloration with darker markings and tubercles covering their skin.
Their call consists of a loud trill or rattle lasting 1-2 seconds, often continuing for several minutes during peak breeding activity.
Mexican Spadefoot Toads can remain underground for extended periods, emerging only during favorable weather conditions.
These desert-adapted frogs prefer areas with loose, sandy soil and access to temporary pools.
They’re particularly active during monsoon season when heavy rains create optimal conditions for breeding and foraging.
Couch’s Spadefoot Toad
Couch’s Spadefoot Toads (Scaphiopus couchii) represent the most drought-tolerant amphibians in Texas, capable of surviving underground for over a year without emerging.
These medium-sized frogs measure 2.5 to 3.5 inches and display yellow to green coloration with darker markings and a distinctive sickle-shaped spade on their hind feet.
Their call consists of a loud, bleating trill that can be heard from considerable distances.
Couch’s Spadefoot Toads demonstrate remarkable physiological adaptations, including the ability to reabsorb water from their bladder during periods of dehydration.
These extreme specialists prefer areas with sandy soils and minimal vegetation.
They’re particularly active during heavy summer rains when temporary pools provide brief windows of opportunity for breeding and feeding.
Hurter’s Spadefoot Toad
Hurter’s Spadefoot Toads (Scaphiopus hurterii) inhabit the central regions of Texas, demonstrating adaptations to both arid and mesic environments.
These medium-sized frogs measure 2 to 3 inches and display brown to gray coloration with darker markings and a distinctive sickle-shaped spade on their hind feet.
Their call consists of a loud, harsh trill lasting 1-2 seconds, often described as resembling a lamb’s bleat.
Hurter’s Spadefoot Toads can remain underground for extended periods, emerging during favorable weather conditions for breeding and foraging.
These adaptable frogs prefer areas with sandy or clay soils and access to temporary pools.
They’re particularly active during spring and summer rains when breeding conditions become optimal throughout their range.
Mexican Burrowing Toad
The Mexican Burrowing Toad (Rhinophrynus dorsalis) represents one of the most unusual amphibians in Texas, with its distinctive appearance and specialized lifestyle.
These large frogs measure 2.5 to 4 inches and display a robust, balloon-like body shape with a pointed snout and distinctive orange and black coloration.
Their call consists of a loud, resonant “whoop” that can be heard from considerable distances.
Mexican Burrowing Toads spend most of their lives underground, emerging only during heavy rains to breed and feed on termites and ants.
These specialized frogs prefer areas with sandy soils and access to temporary pools.
They represent a relict species, being the sole surviving member of an ancient amphibian lineage that once included numerous species.
Gulf Coast Toad
Gulf Coast Toads (Incilius nebulifer) represent one of the most common toads in southeastern Texas, demonstrating remarkable adaptability to urban environments.
These medium-sized toads measure 2 to 4 inches and display brown to gray coloration with distinctive dark spots and prominent parotoid glands.
Their call consists of a long, flat trill lasting 2-8 seconds, often described as resembling a telephone ringing.
Gulf Coast Toads are active throughout much of the year, taking advantage of the mild climate in coastal regions.
These adaptable toads inhabit various environments, from natural woodlands to suburban areas.
They’re particularly active during evening hours when they hunt for insects around porch lights and other artificial light sources.
Texas Toad
Texas Toads (Anaxyrus speciosus) represent one of the most drought-tolerant toads in the state, demonstrating remarkable adaptations to arid environments.
These medium-sized toads measure 2 to 3.5 inches and display brown to gray coloration with distinctive symmetrical dark spots and prominent cranial crests.
Their call consists of a loud, explosive trill lasting 1-2 seconds, often described as resembling a pneumatic drill.
Texas Toads can remain underground for extended periods, emerging during favorable weather conditions for breeding and foraging.
These desert-adapted toads prefer areas with sandy soils and sparse vegetation.
They’re particularly active during summer rains when temporary pools provide breeding opportunities and abundant insect prey.
Woodhouse’s Toad
Woodhouse’s Toads (Anaxyrus woodhousii) inhabit various regions of Texas, demonstrating remarkable adaptability to different environmental conditions.
These medium-sized toads measure 2.5 to 5 inches and display brown to gray coloration with distinctive dark spots and prominent parotoid glands.
Their call consists of a nasal “waaa” sound lasting 1-2 seconds, often described as resembling a sheep’s bleat.
Woodhouse’s Toads are active throughout much of the year, taking advantage of diverse habitat opportunities.
These adaptable toads inhabit various environments, from river bottoms to desert areas.
They’re particularly active during evening hours when they hunt for insects and other small prey items.
Great Plains Toad
Great Plains Toads (Anaxyrus cognatus) represent one of the largest toads in Texas, with impressive individuals reaching lengths of 4.5 inches.
These robust toads display brown to gray coloration with distinctive large, dark spots bordered by light-colored lines.
Their call consists of a loud, metallic trill lasting 5-50 seconds, often described as resembling a rivet gun or pneumatic drill.
Great Plains Toads can remain underground for extended periods, emerging during favorable weather conditions.
These prairie-adapted toads prefer areas with loose, sandy soil and access to temporary pools.
They’re particularly active during spring and summer rains when breeding conditions become optimal throughout their range.
Red-spotted Toad
Red-spotted Toads (Anaxyrus punctatus) inhabit the rocky terrain of western Texas, demonstrating remarkable climbing abilities among boulder fields and cliff faces.
These small to medium-sized toads measure 1.5 to 3 inches and display gray to brown coloration with distinctive red or orange spots.
Their call consists of a musical trill lasting 6-10 seconds, often described as resembling a cricket’s song.
Red-spotted Toads are active throughout much of the year in areas with favorable microclimates.
These rock-dwelling toads prefer areas with rocky substrates and access to permanent or semi-permanent water sources.
They’re particularly active during evening hours when they hunt for insects and other small arthropods.
Green Toad
Green Toads (Anaxyrus debilis) represent one of the smallest toads in Texas, with their bright green coloration making them distinctive among desert amphibians.
These small toads measure 1.25 to 2.25 inches and display bright green base coloration with small dark spots and distinctive flat parotoid glands.
Their call consists of a buzzy trill lasting 5-10 seconds, often described as resembling an insect’s buzz.
Green Toads are active throughout much of the year in areas with favorable conditions.
These desert-adapted toads prefer areas with sandy soils and access to temporary pools.
They’re particularly active during summer rains when breeding opportunities and insect prey become abundant throughout their habitat.
Houston Toad
The Houston Toad (Anaxyrus houstonensis) represents one of Texas’s most critically endangered amphibians, with populations restricted to a few counties in east-central Texas.
These medium-sized toads measure 2 to 3.5 inches and display brown to gray coloration with distinctive dark spots and prominent cranial crests.
Their call consists of a high-pitched trill lasting 2-10 seconds, distinctly different from other toads in their range.
Houston Toads require specific habitat conditions, including sandy soils and access to temporary pools for breeding.
These endangered toads prefer areas with loblolly pine forests and sandy soils.
Conservation efforts focus on habitat restoration and protection of remaining breeding sites to prevent extinction of this endemic Texas species.
Coastal Plain Toad
Coastal Plain Toads (Incilius valliceps) inhabit the extreme southern regions of Texas, representing the northernmost extent of this primarily Mexican species.
These large toads measure 2.5 to 4.5 inches and display brown to gray coloration with distinctive dark spots and prominent parotoid glands.
Their call consists of a long, stuttering trill lasting 2-8 seconds, often described as resembling a motorboat engine.
Coastal Plain Toads are active throughout much of the year in their limited Texas range.
These subtropical toads prefer areas with sandy soils and access to permanent water sources.
They’re particularly active during evening hours when they hunt for insects and other small prey items.
Eastern American Toad
Eastern American Toads (Anaxyrus americanus) represent the easternmost extent of this widely distributed species, inhabiting extreme eastern Texas.
These medium-sized toads measure 2 to 4.5 inches and display brown to gray coloration with distinctive dark spots and prominent parotoid glands.
Their call consists of a long, musical trill lasting 6-30 seconds, often described as resembling a beautiful song.
Eastern American Toads are active throughout much of the year in areas with favorable conditions.
These forest-dwelling toads prefer areas with sandy soils and access to temporary pools.
They’re particularly active during spring when breeding activity reaches its peak throughout their limited Texas range.
Conclusion
Texas’s incredible diversity of frog species reflects the state’s varied ecosystems and climate conditions.
From the humid pine forests of the east to the arid deserts of the west, each region supports unique assemblages of amphibians that have evolved specialized adaptations to their local environments.
Understanding these remarkable creatures helps us appreciate the delicate balance of Texas ecosystems and the importance of conserving wetland habitats.
Whether you’re listening to the evening chorus of Green Tree Frogs or discovering the specialized adaptations of spadefoot toads, Texas amphibians offer endless opportunities for observation and learning.
The next time you hear that distinctive croaking chorus on a warm Texas evening, you’ll have a better understanding of the diverse community of frogs and toads contributing to nature’s soundtrack.
These remarkable amphibians serve as both indicators of environmental health and fascinating subjects for anyone interested in the natural world of the Lone Star State.
